From secondary school to college: evolution of vocational indecision and contributions of motivations in vocational decision-making

Vocational indecision is a significant challenge faced by adolescents as they transition from secondary school to college. This article examines the evolution of vocational indecision over a five-year period, highlighting the critical role of motivational factors in shaping these decisions. The study identifies two types of vocational indecision: developmental and chronic, each with distinct trajectories and implications for academic and vocational outcomes. Developmental indecision is characterized by a transient state that resolves as students gather more information, while chronic indecision persists due to underlying fears and anxieties. The research also explores the impact of autonomous and controlled motivations on vocational indecision, revealing that intrinsic motivation is negatively associated with indecision, whereas introjected and external regulations are positively linked. The findings underscore the importance of understanding motivational dynamics to support adolescents in making informed vocational decisions. By providing a longitudinal perspective, this article offers valuable insights into the factors that contribute to vocational indecision and the strategies that can be employed to mitigate its effects. The study also considers confounding variables such as gender, geographic region, and guidance counseling, providing a nuanced understanding of how these factors interact with motivational types to influence vocational indecision. The implications for interventions are significant, suggesting the need for targeted activities and programs that foster autonomous decision-making and address the underlying motivations that drive vocational indecision.